About the Christmas Lecture
The Christmas lecture is special for several reasons. Firstly, it is the last lecture of the calendar year (it always takes place in the last week before Christmas). Secondly, it is also the first lecture, as it is often the only lecture in the true sense; it consists entirely of readings.
The audience is also exceptional. It comprises those who formed the backbone of the Operations Research professorship over the past year: the team assistants, the system administrators, the student assistants, the research associates, and, last but not least, the master's students who are nearing the end of their studies. Without them and without their harmonious collaboration, no joint work or scientific progress would be possible. Therefore, this short lecture is also a gesture of gratitude. The lecture format should not be emphasized too much, even though I think this type of event has become a valuable asset.
The lecture should not be overemphasized, even though I think this format has become something worth preserving. The lecture is called the "Christmas Lecture" because it makes a connection to Christmas and, consequently, to the Christian tradition of our culture. For this reason, aspects of religion and philosophy are addressed, and texts are presented for reflection. The aim is to foster discourse and reflection within this small group. To initiate this reflection, a passage from a text is presented, the author of which remains anonymous. Should a listener recognize the passage at the end, they will be presented with the original work as a gift, and their name will be inscribed on this page alongside the text passage.
As part of a festive Christmas celebration, the old year will draw to a close with best wishes for the "TOR" (Team Operations Research) as the COMTESSA research group. This is not a winter fairy tale, but reality. Anyone who would like to can see for themselves on
December 16, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Stefan Pickl, Munich, at Christmas every year